About a month ago, the internet started to buzz with word that a new GoPro camera was coming out soon. There were high hopes and talks of 4K at 30fps as well as 240fps at 720. While the GoPro Hero 3+ does not offer those, there are still some things to be excited about.

First of all, the new Hero 3+ waterproof housing is 20% smaller and lighter. It is, however, only waterproof up to 131 feet (40 meters) as opposed to the previous case which was waterproof up to 197 feet (60 meters). This won’t be an issue for most people, and if it is you can still use one of the old waterproof cases with the Hero 3+.

One of the biggest improvements of the new GoPro is the lens. The new lens is an f/2.8 and has been completely rebuilt. It makes the image much sharper, something that I’m sure will please filmmakers.

The GoPro Hero 3+ also improves visual quality by having an improved dynamic range. While we can’t exactly say how much better it is, GoPro claims it has improved by 33%. The software has also been tweaked to improve color balance.

Other improvements include a “SuperView” mode for a wider POV, an improved Wi-Fi chip (less lag when viewing from app), 25% better battery life, two redesigned microphones for improved audio, and an auto low-light mode.